Digestive Benefits of Dried Anjeer or Figs

Figs, also known as Anjeer, are small fruits that belong to the mulberry family. They are scientifically termed Ficus carica. They are extremely sweet and succulent in taste and can be eaten as fresh or dried fruits. Dried figs are known to have ample amounts of antioxidants, nutrients, fibres and natural sugar. Even Ayurveda mentions many therapeutic uses of Anjeer and uses the latex of the fruit as medicine.     

What are the Nutrients Found in Dried Figs?

Dried figs are highly rich in soluble fibres and essential nutrients. They contain a good amount of minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, selenium and zinc. They are also rich in antioxidant flavonoids such as lutein, tannins, chlorogenic acids, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K and help the body fight free radical damage. 

What is the Ayurvedic Perspective on Dried Anjeer?

According to Ayurveda, Anjeer is a sweet and astringent fruit that helps to balance Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body. Ayurveda mentions many properties of figs, such as diuretic, expectorant, and laxative properties. Figs are immensely beneficial in removing toxins from the body and treating diseases such as high blood pressure, constipation, piles, digestive issues, etc. 

How do Figs Help to Boost Digestive Health? 

Figs or dried Anjeer are one of the best Ayurvedic remedies for treating chronic constipation. In constipation, the movement of food in the digestive tract decreases and the stool passes with difficulty. Figs are a natural laxative, vastly rich in soluble fibres. They help increase the water content and add bulk to the stool, promoting bowel movements and relieving constipation. In addition, they are also highly effective in reducing the transit time of bowel movements and the efforts required to pass the stool.

According to Ayurveda, constipation is caused due to an aggravation of the Vata Dosha in the body and dried Anjeer is one of the best natural foods to pacify Vata Dosha and boost overall digestion. Figs also help to replenish and soothe the intestines, aiding in the treatment of many digestive disorders such as indigestion, stomach flu, stomach pain, etc.    

How to Use Anjeer to Boost Digestion?

To relieve constipation and improve digestion:

• Soak 3-4 pieces of dried Anjeer in water overnight 
• Drain the water in the morning and eat them on an empty stomach 
• You may also add honey to them to add taste

What are the Other Benefits of Eating Dried Figs?

• Dried figs are highly beneficial in increasing vitality and libido. They are also used to treat many sexual dysfunctions in both men and women. 
• Rich in soluble fibres, Anjeer are also highly effective in promoting weight loss. 
• They help to regulate blood pressure levels and boost heart health.
• As a natural laxative, dried figs act as one of the best remedies for treating piles or haemorrhoids.
• They also play an important role in strengthening the bones and lowering the risk of osteoporosis. 
• Figs are highly recommended for diabetes patients. They are highly beneficial in lowering insulin needs and regulating blood sugar spikes. 
• Dried figs are also known to cure many respiratory problems such as cough, sore throat, etc.
• They are also highly beneficial to boost the health of the skin.  

Takeaway:

Dried figs are one of the best natural remedies to relieve constipation and boost the overall digestive health of the person. Daily consumption of dried Anjeer can also yield many other health benefits. They help to regulate blood pressure levels, improve heart health, boost skin health, etc. They can also be used as an antacid as they help ease constipation.

This article is reviewed by Dr. Sunanda Ranade